Testing for endothelial dysfunction

Endothelial health is a key factor in normal cardiovascular homeostasis, and recent studies have revealed several important functions of the vascular endothelium that protect against atherothrombosis. These include control over arterial tone, coagulation, fibrinolysis, and vascular growth. Consequently, endothelial dysfunction has been implicated as an important event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, coronary vasoconstriction, hypertension, and myocardial ischaemia. Therefore, there has been considerable research interest in diagnostic assays for the assessment of endothelium. This review outlines the current status of markers of endothelial dysfunction, particularly those related to vasomotor control, as well as circulating markers of vascular health.